From September 30, the US Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) will double the fee from its current US$21 (R368) to $40 (R700).
Visitors from visa-free countries, including the UK and most EU members, have to apply for an ESTA to enter the US. The ESTA is valid for two years unless the traveller’s passport expires.
“All unpaid ESTA applications in the system after the system update on September 30, 2025, will be subject to the new fee amount of $40,” the US Customs and Border Protection agency said in an announcement.
